JUNE 2006

Basking Sharks and Whales Sighted in Inishowen Coastal Waters

There have been regular sightings around Inishowen's coastal waters of Basking sharks and whales in bays all along the coast from Inishowen Head to Crummies bay, due to the recent spell of calm summer weather. Basking sharks are not uncommon around the Northern coast and they are usually sighted from June to July, but this year's amount and density is exceptional.

The gentle giants feed on plankton by filtering water through their huge mouth and straining it over their gill rakers. The basking shark is the largest fish in Irish waters, and the second largest in the world. They can grow up to ten meters in length but average about six to seven meters. They are normally seen feeding around the surface as they follow the tides and sea currents that move and shift the patches of plankton.

Very little is known about these huge fish, only that they are believed to breed in the north Atlantic during May and are almost certainly migratory. Basking Sharks were under pressure during the 1950's from fishing interest mainly for their oil and fins. During this time numbers dropped drastically as they only reproduce every two to three years. Basking sharks can sometimes get caught or tangled in nets and people should take the time to release them unharmed. The recent spate of sightings is very encouraging and could suggest that the species are gradually making a comeback.

A large group of Minke whales were also sighted feeding a few miles off Malin Head along side the basking sharks. Minke whales also feed on plankton and can grow up to ten meters in length. They are one of the more majestic mammals that can be seen in our coastal waters.

When at sea and whale watching or watching groups of birds feeding please try to reduce the disturbance and keep to a minimum distance of 200-300 metres. Turn your engine off and let them approach you, if they want to. They are wild animals and are protected under law. The Irish Wales and Dolphin Group record all sightings of basking sharks and cetaceans.

If you see Basking sharks or cetaceans please get in contact through their web site www.iwdg.ie or contact the local National Parks and Wildlife Ranger for Inishowen - Emmet Johnston on 074 93 22628.

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